Youth soccer coach accused of punching ref

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A Carson Valley American Youth Soccer Organization coach was arrested Saturday on a suspicion of battery after she reportedly struck an official following a match between two teams of under age-10 players.

The victim said coach Elizabeth Jean Deaton, 30, struck her in the chest, and used obscenities after the referee made an “off-sides” call at a game at Ranchos Aspen Park at 1 p.m. Saturday.

According to reports, the victim said she made the call after a goal was scored, nullifying the goal.

After the game was over, Deaton reportedly approached her in an “aggressive manner” and began yelling at her and disputing the call.

Parents and children were present, according to the report.

The referee said she ordered Deaton to leave and not return. She said she backed away from Deaton, but the suspect reportedly struck her in her chest with her fists.

She did not require medical attention.

Deputies arrived on the scene after Deaton left.

The referee said Deaton has been a problem before with her actions and inappropriate language. She said she has received numerous complaints.

The victim said she filed a private party arrest form.

While deputies were taking reports, two witnesses came forward and offered to write statements.

They corroborated the victim’s account, and said another parent tried to break up the altercation. They claimed Deaton tried to engage another parent in a fight, and made threats to other officials.

She was taken into custody without incident at the sheriff’s office when she came to make a report. She claimed she was shoved by the official.

Deaton posted $3,003 bail and is set for arraignment Nov. 25 in East Fork Justice Court.